Ford says that Sync 3-equipped 2018 model year vehicles will be ready to go with Waze. Previous model year Fords with Sync 3 will require an over-the-air update. To use the app, Wazers will only need to connect a smartphone with the app installed to the USB port in a Sync 3-equipped Ford vehicle. Then, Waze will pop up on the infotainment screen.

Ford’s Waze integration takes full advantage of Waze including HOV routes, traffic and police alerts, and, crucially, the Talk to Waze function that eliminates the need for drivers to tap out commands while moving.

The Waze integration comes courtesy SmartDevice Link, an interface standardization effort spearheaded by Ford that’s now being shared with Toyota, Mazda, Subaru, and other automakers. SmartDevice Link was born to streamline app interfaces as well as to improve security against hackers.

It’s also a bid by automakers to reduce Apple and Google’s encroachment on in-car tech. Wednesday’s announcement is the first sign of life from SmartDevice Link—and it’s a big one.

Free Vin Lookup

The Vehicle Identification Number is located in many different places on a car. It is very common to appear on the dashboard and/or in the drivers side door sticker. You can do a free VIN look up to check vehicle problems on the button above.